For those of you who are responsible for preparing lunch boxes, this post is for you!

Today, I’d like to share my daughter’s lunch box pictures from the past ten months, filled with pictures and insights into the meals I’ve packed for her who is in elementary school now.

In the morning, I cherish my quiet time, where I can indulge in reading a book and writing in my journal. Yet, as a mom, my first official task of the day is preparing my daughter’s lunch box, kicking off my role as a multitasking lunchbox chef. I have packer her lunch for last six years.

This daily lunch box picture-taking habit started about a year ago during the summer. At that point, I began feeling a nagging sense that I wasn’t creating anything truly valuable, despite juggling family responsibilities and a full-time job. It was as if I were missing out on fully embracing life’s potential. So, as a form of self-encouragement, I decided to document my daughter’s lunch box every day taking a picture of her lunchbox. I wanted to capture whole cooking process as video, but I did not have energy to do so.

Looking at those pictures became a way to remind myself that I had already accomplished something meaningful early in the day – crafting her lunch with love. Those captured moments showcased my efforts in a tangible, heartwarming manner.

As someone who takes pride in providing a variety of meals, the challenge lies in figuring out what to prepare for her lunch box each day. While I’ve honed in on a few go-to menus, there’s always room for improvement and innovation. I occasionally consult my daughter about her friends’ lunches, but it doesn’t always provide the best inspiration.

Reflecting on my own past, I can’t help but recall my mother’s dedicated efforts in preparing my lunch box. It was such a relief when I entered college, and she joyfully exclaimed, ‘Wow, I’m done! No more lunch boxes to prepare!’ I am eternally grateful for her unwavering love and care over those nine years leading up to college. Back then, in South Korea, high school kids brought two meals to school – lunch and dinner – as we stayed for evening studying until 9:30 pm. I was proud that my lunch box foods were tasty and popular among my friends, often leading me to share them with my friends.

Now, my daughter’s school is a small one without a cafeteria. One of the main reasons I chose this school was to ensure she enjoys home-cooked meals for their nutritional benefits. However, as she advances into junior high and high school, her eating habits and choices will inevitably change. I’m uncertain when she’ll transition to purchasing her lunch from the school cafeteria.

While health and balanced nutrition remain top priorities, the reality is that sometimes, my morning rush causes me to pack whatever is readily available and quick to cook. I recognize the need to improve menu variations, focusing on three main categories – the main dish, fruits, and vegetables. Her favorites include grilled salmon, BBQ chicken, spaghetti without sauce, mac & cheese, pork cutlet, egg rolls, among others. As a practical touch, I’ve adopted the habit of using cloth napkins to wrap utensils, changing them daily.

I hope this lunch box journey inspires you, fellow lunchbox chefs, to continue experimenting and creating delightful meals for your loved ones.

Let’s embrace the joy of crafting thoughtful and delicious lunch boxes that bring happiness to those we care about. Happy lunchbox crafting!